Devshayani Ekadashi 2026 Date: There is some confusion regarding the date of Devshayani Ekadashi 2026, specifically between July 24 and July 25. The main reason for this is that while the Ekadashi Tithi (lunar day) of the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase) of the Ashadha month begins on July 24, it starts after sunrise. This raises the question of whether the fast should be observed on July 24 or July 25. Let us find out the correct date for Devshayani Ekadashi this year.

When is Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi in 2026?
The Ekadashi Tithi of the *Shukla Paksha* of the Ashadha month will begin at 9:12 AM on July 24, 2026, and continue until 11:34 AM on July 25. Although the date begins on July 24 according to the Gregorian calendar, the *Dashami Tithi* (the tenth day) will be prevailing at the time of sunrise on that day.

In Hindu tradition, special importance is given to the *Tithi* prevailing at sunrise when determining dates for fasts and festivals; this is known as '*Udaya Tithi*'. Since the Ekadashi Tithi will be active at sunrise on July 25, observing the fast on that day is considered appropriate according to the scriptures.

Ekadashi Tithi Timing

Ekadashi Tithi begins: July 24, 2026, at 9:12 AM
Ekadashi Tithi ends: July 25, 2026, at 11:34 AM
Date of the fast: July 25, 2026
Basis for determining the date: *Udaya Tithi*
At sunrise on July 24: *Dashami Tithi*
At sunrise on July 25: *Ekadashi Tithi*

Why the dilemma between July 24 and July 25?

Sujit Maharaj explains that *Panchang* (Hindu almanac) dates do not change at midnight like Gregorian calendar dates; instead, they can begin and end at any time during the day or night. This is why a single *Tithi* can span across two different calendar dates. This year, the *Ekadashi Tithi* (lunar day) begins around 9:15 AM on July 24. Consequently, some might consider observing the fast on July 24 based on its start time. However, *Dashami Tithi* will prevail at sunrise on July 24, whereas sunrise on July 25 will occur during *Ekadashi Tithi*. Therefore, it is more appropriate to observe the fast on July 25.

**Devshayani Ekadashi 2026: *Paran* (Fast-Breaking) Time**

Devotees observing the Devshayani Ekadashi fast will break their fast on Sunday, July 26, 2026. The auspicious time for breaking the fast is between 5:39 AM and 8:22 AM. On this day, *Dwadashi Tithi* will continue until 1:57 PM.

The *Ekadashi* fast should be broken during *Dwadashi Tithi*. Therefore, devotees should conclude the fast by performing acts of charity and worshiping Lord Vishnu within the designated timeframe.

**Significance of Devshayani Ekadashi**

According to religious beliefs, Lord Vishnu enters a state of *Yoganidra* (cosmic slumber) for four months starting from Devshayani Ekadashi. This day marks the beginning of *Chaturmas*. Auspicious activities such as weddings and housewarming ceremonies are generally not performed during this period. Auspicious activities resume later in the month of *Kartik* on Devutthana Ekadashi, coinciding with the awakening of Lord Vishnu.

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